1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2002 Toyota MR2 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota MR2 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 910 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2002 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Toyota |
| Model | Elan | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1150 mm |
